David de Gea keen on Manchester United captaincy ahead of signing new six-year deal

Spanish goalkeeper said he wanted to help the team return to the summit of English football at a supporters' event in Singapore

David de Gea has been at Manchester United since 2011. Reuters

David de Gea has given Manchester United a significant boost by saying he would welcome the chance to become captain as the Spanish goalkeeper closes in on a new long-term contract.

De Gea, 28, has long been linked with a move away from Old Trafford but said he wanted to help the team return to the summit of English football at a supporters' event in Singapore.

United's previous captain Antonio Valencia left at the end of last season and De Gea is one of several players in the frame to replace him along with Ashley Young, Juan Mata, Chris Smalling and Paul Pogba.

"I've been captain for some games. Of course it is amazing to be captain of a club like Manchester United and defend this badge," said De Gea, who is reported to be on the verge of signing a new six-year contract. "It's amazing, so of course I'll be really, really happy to captain.

"It's my ninth season, I feel like one of the most experienced players. We have to improve a lot.

"We are Manchester United, we need to fight for trophies. When you put on this badge, that's what it means — fight for everything, give your best and bring the team again to the top."

United, who have not lost a match on their pre-season tour so far, beating Perth Glory, Leeds United and Inter Milan, take on Tottenham Hotspur in Shanghai on Thursday.